Frank William Riehart

Frank William Riehart, 86, of Bartlesville, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in Bartlesville. Born on April 6, 1938, in Bartlesville to Frank and Ellen (Brooks) Riehart, Frank was raised and educated in the area, graduating from College High in 1956. He furthered his education at NEO in Miami, OK, before completing an architecture degree at Oklahoma State University. He was a member of the Glee Club, Delta Chi fraternity, Engineering Gavel Club, Student Council, and a member of the American Institute of Architects and Engineers. While at OSU, Frank noticed a young lady but was unsure how to approach her. Fortunately, his roommate was acquainted with her, leading to some coffee and light conversation. Not long after, Frank spent a semester studying at the Palais de Fontainebleau, located just outside Paris, France. During this time, he wrote Karel a postcard or letter each day. However, just three days before his return, Karel left for California to embark on her teaching career. Yet, something seemed to pull her back to Oklahoma—perhaps it was fate. Upon his return, Frank convinced her that they were meant to be together, and they married on June 5, 1965. Frank spent his summers working for the forest service, while Karel dreamed of moving west. Their journey began in Salem, Oregon, where they lived for four years before relocating to Littleton, Colorado, for nine years. They then moved to Spring, Texas, near Houston, for two years, and finally returned to the west, settling in Federal Way, Washington, for another two years. Frank convinced Karel and the children that his hometown of Bartlesville enjoyed more sunshine than the northwest. Throughout his career, Frank has worked on architecture and construction management projects across the country. Highlights of his career included working with the I.M.PEI office on a bank in Lincoln, Nebraska, being in charge of the design and construction of a high-rise bank in the Chicago area, and working with the Gary Sparks firm on the T. Boone Pickens football stadium at OSU. Frank and Karel shared a deep love for travel, with Frank taking charge of research and planning. They began exploring with their daughters, Kara and Rachael and created countless memorable trips with their grandchildren, Alex and Evan. They traveled far and wide, using every mode of transportation available. One of their greatest joys was engaging with fellow travelers and locals wherever they went. Some of their most unforgettable destinations included Sedona, the Canadian Rockies, Dubai, Alaska, Hawaii, Barcelona, and Switzerland. Frank designed their current home, drafting the plans and using his own hands during the construction. Although they moved in 1989, he still had ongoing and unfinished projects. He took pleasure in working in the yard and nurturing numerous houseplants. Together with Karel, they were longtime members of Bartlesville First Church, where he actively participated in various ministries, including renovation and repair projects for the former downtown building. Over the years, they loved and cared for several Boston Terriers, treating them as part of the family. Frank was cherished and will be deeply missed. Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 59.5 years, Karel; two daughters, Kara Lynn Riehart and Rachael Breese; two grandchildren, Alex McGuire and Evan (Angela) McGuire; two nieces, Jan and Sharon; and three nephews, Dennis, Chris, and Mark. He is preceded in death by his parents, three sisters—Frances Rainwater, Josephine Widowski, and Doris Smith—and a nephew, Larry Smith. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bartlesville First Church, located at 4715 Price Rd., Bartlesville, OK 74006. A service will take place on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Bartlesville First Church, officiated by Rev. Dr. Greg Tener. Arrangements are under the guidance of Carter Davis and the Davis Family Funeral Home & Crematory – Walker Brown Chapel. Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.DavisFamilyFuneralHome.com.

Frank William Riehart

April 6, 1938 - December 7, 2024